Technology dependence in home care: impact on patients and their family caregivers.

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this review is to explore how home technology care affects patients, family caregivers, and quality of life (QOL).

METHODS

A literature search was conducted to identify studies of home parenteral nutrition (HPN) and other technology prescribed home care.

RESULTS

Technology dependence influences health-related QOL. Patients and their family caregivers must balance the positive aspects of being in the home environment with the challenges of administering complex therapies at home. Patients and caregivers need additional support to reduce the physical, emotional, social, and financial burdens they experience.

CONCLUSIONS

More research is needed to address effective interventions to reduce patient and caregiver burdens and to improve outcomes for technology-dependent individuals. A greater level of preparedness for managing home technology and technology-related problems may improve quality of life.